Panic ensued in Bukavu, Congo, as thousands fled from advancing Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The rebels have yet to fully control the city, but reports indicate looting and disorder in the aftermath of Congolese soldiers’ withdrawal. International leaders are calling for a ceasefire and stability amid the ongoing conflict, which has already displaced hundreds of thousands and resulted in significant casualties.
In eastern Congo, panic gripped Bukavu, the second-largest city, as thousands fled amid the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Following the rebels’ entrance into the city outskirts, frantic residents sought safety, while looting ensued as Congolese soldiers abandoned their posts. The morning was marked by chaos, with streets filled with people escaping and empty factories reported as looters filled their bags with supplies.
Despite the chaos, as of Saturday, M23 had not secured full control over Bukavu, with reports of a brief calm after gunfire subsided. However, residents observed disturbing scenes, including burned corpses left in streets, highlighting the lawlessness that followed the military’s withdrawal. “They set fire to the ammunition they were unable to take with them,” noted Alain Iragi, a refugee from the violence.
The Congo River Alliance, a coalition that includes M23, attributed the disorder to Congolese forces and local militias. Their spokesperson urged citizens to maintain order and resist panic. Pierre Bahizi, the self-appointed governor declared by the rebels, encouraged residents to collaborate for stability, stating, “We must not leave power in the street.”
M23’s recent movements expand their territorial control in eastern Congo, posing a significant challenge to the Kinshasa government. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, especially after French President Emmanuel Macron’s call for a ceasefire and the restoration of local authorities in Bukavu. The ongoing conflict has already led to nearly 3,000 deaths and left around 350,000 people displaced without shelter.
Rebel forces claimed control over Bukavu’s airport on Friday, strategically important for supplying troops and humanitarian aid. The Congolese government has reported that rebels violated ceasefire agreements, escalating fears of urban warfare. Meanwhile, troops from neighboring countries, including Burundi, are supporting Congolese forces in combating the M23 advance.
The conflict attracted attention during the recent African Union summit, where U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need to prevent regional escalation. Despite calls for peace, responses to the conflict from African leaders and the global community have been tepid. With other regional conflicts, such as the fight against the Allied Democratic Forces in Ituri, tensions continue to mount throughout eastern Congo.
The situation in Bukavu remains precarious as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advance, leading to widespread panic and displacement among residents. While fighting has temporarily ceased, concerns over looting and violence persist, exacerbated by the abandonment of Congolese troops. International calls for ceasefire and assistance highlight the urgent need for stability in the region, as the looming threat of further escalation poses risks to Congo’s sovereignty.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
